ISU and AFSCME Local 1110 ratify new contract, end 4-week strike

NORMAL, Ill. (WAND) - Illinois State University and AFSCME Local 1110 have voted to ratify a new contract, ending a four-week strike.

Over 300 ISU building, grounds and dining services employees were on strike for around a month while asking for better pay.

They had not received a raise in two years.

AFSCME Local 1110 said the contract will include an immediate 3.5% wage increase and a $1,500 lump-sum payment. Annual 3% raises will follow every summer through 2029.

As part of the settlement, the union will drop its lawsuit against the university, and employees will return to work Wednesday.

A lawsuit was originally filed at the end of April in McLean County Circuit Court by AFSCME Council 31, the union representing the striking workers.

Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias and Treasurer Michael Frerichs spoke out previously, calling on ISU administration to settle a contract with union staff.